Ohio Senate Democrats Tackle Guns, Ballot Access, Economy

Democrats in the Ohio Senate say they'll work this session on bills to curb gun violence, improve ballot access and support healthy, financially stable families.

The legislative agenda of the Senate's minority caucus was announced Tuesday. It also includes proposals to extend hot meals for low-income children year-round and to establish a Family Stability Commission that would explore ideas such as reduced-price marriage licenses for those who get counseling and 30-day timeouts before a divorce.

Leader Eric Kearney, of Cincinnati, said the caucus being the first to announce its priorities shows Senate Democrats are ready to work.

Sen. Shirley Smith, of Cleveland, is gathering input from all sides of the gun debate ahead of introducing legislation to reduce gun-related crimes. The legislation may include limits on assault weapons.